Transfer Scholarships and Financial Aid

A Lake Forest College education prepares you for the future, invests in your potential, and sets you on the path to success. We offer up to $37,000 a year in merit-based scholarship for transfer students.

Our Forester Flagship Program offers qualified in-state students 100% of the College’s tuition covered in grants and scholarships.

100% of incoming 2025 transfer students received $5 million in aid

Entering with over 28 hours of coursework

Applicants entering with over 28 hours of completed coursework will be evaluated through a holistic review process. Using your transcript, letters of recommendation, interview, and test scores (optional), we will offer a scholarship of up to $37,000 annually in recognition of your achievements.  

Entering with up to 28 hours of completed coursework

Use your weighted high school GPA or your SAT score or your ACT score to see the scholarship you could be eligible for as a transfer student entering in Fall 2026. 

Scholarship range table

Not on the grid? You can still apply. At Lake Forest College, we know that our students are more than just a number. We are searching for interesting, well-rounded students to add to our diverse community. Our holistic admission process takes into consideration your engagement with the College, accomplishments in and out of the classroom, leadership potential, course preparation, and more. 

Applying test-optional? No problem.

You will be reviewed for scholarship on an individual basis using our holistic review process. Schedule an interview with your admission counselor as soon as possible. We believe that this conversation tells more about a student’s drive and passion for learning than a standardized exam.

Your out-of-pocket cost is further reduced by other forms of aid  

The scholarships in the above grid are combinable with different forms of aid. Please be sure to apply to the College and fill out the FAFSA to be considered for additional scholarships, federal grants, and other financial aid. Your official award letter will include a clear breakdown of your out-of-pocket costs. 

Transfer Application and Enrollment Deadlines

Spring and Fall 2026 applications are now open! The deadline for Spring is January 1, 2026 and the deadline for Fall is August 1, 2026.

Additional Scholarship/Grant Opportunities

We partner with the College of Lake County, Harper College, Oakton College, and City Colleges of Chicago to offer generous scholarships to qualifying students. No additional application is required; simply complete the Lake Forest Transfer Application and fill out the FAFSA.  

CLC

Scholarships for College of Lake County Students

Lake Forest College offers up to $37,000 a year in merit-based scholarship for College of Lake County students.

Harper College

Scholarships for Harper Students

The Lake Forest College Full-Tuition Scholarship is available exclusively to Phi Theta Kappa and/or Honors Program students at Harper College.

Oakton College

Scholarships for Oakton Students

The Lake Forest College Full-Tuition Scholarship is available exclusively to Phi Theta Kappa and/or Honors Program students at Oakton College.

Chicago and Lake Michigan

Star Scholarship for City Colleges of Chicago Students

The $2,500 Star Scholarship recognizes transfer students who are a member of a Star Scholars Program at one of the City Colleges of Chicago and is stackable on top of either the $37,000 Phi Theta Kappa Scholarship or a Presidential Scholarship of up to $37,000, furthering our commitment to support high achieving transfer students.

Phi Theta Kappa Scholarship

Phi Theta Kappa Scholarship

This scholarship recognizes transfer students who hold current membership in Phi Theta Kappa, an international honor society of two-year colleges.

students laughing together

Forester Flagship Program

Our Forester Flagship Program provides qualified in-state first-year and transfer students with 100% of the College’s tuition covered in grants and scholarships.

a student painting at a table

Fine Arts Scholarships

Lake Forest College offers talent-based scholarships in music, studio art, and theater. Scholarships are available to both majors and non-majors, first-years and transfers.

Scholarship Highlights

  • 95% of admitted students receive scholarship and/or need-based financial assistance from the College.
  • Merit-based and need-based aid may be used for many off-campus programs.
  • Scholarships are guaranteed each year as long as the student maintains a 2.0 GPA and satisfactory academic progress.

Financial Aid Information

Financial Aid

Financial Aid

The Office of Financial Aid offers a personalized approach, helping our students and families by providing timely information, anticipating concerns, and seeking innovative, personalized solutions.

FAFSA Process

FAFSA Process

The FAFSA is used by U.S. citizens and permanent residents to apply for need-based aid (grants, loans, work-study) from College, state and federal sources.